Sid Caesar dead at 91

Sid Caesar dead at 91

Sid Caesar in 2006 (Getty Images)

NEW YORK (PIX11/AP) — Legendary comic genius Sid Caesar, a pioneer of television’s golden age, has died at the age of 91.

Family spokesman Eddy Friedfeld says Caesar died early Wednesday. His death was revealed on Twitter by Larry King, who called him a “comic genius” and “dear friend.” Caesar’s sketches lit up 1950s television with zany humor.

New York’s Friars Club in an email to PIX11’s Marvin Scott earlier confirmed the death Wednesday afternoon.

A choked-up Jerry Lewis told Marvin Scott that “we lost a treasure” in a telephone interview Wednesday.

“The Friars Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of the true comic geniuses of the 20th century. Friar Sid Caesar leaves behind a legacy that is equaled by very few. His work on “Your Show of Shows” remains the gold standard by which all sketch comedy is judged. He shall forever be the patron saint of that unique art form. We at the Friars, the entire world of comedy and all of America will miss the extraordinary Sid Caesar.”